There has been a shift towards living more sustainably in recent years. From the environmental advocacy of Sir David Attenborough to the activism of Greta Thunberg, the messaging around the impact of climate change and pollution on the environment is more prominent than ever before.
These campaigns are based in fact, too. Last year was the warmest on record globally, revealing just how much of an impact our emissions are having on the planet.
While the UK Government plans to reach carbon net zero by 2050, it’s worth thinking of ways that we can help achieve this target on an individual level. One way to do that is by focusing on how we live.
Living sustainably
Sustainable living is about making choices that reduce our negative impact on the environment, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations. In home design and renovation, this means introducing appliances and materials that have a minimal carbon footprint where possible.
As well as helping the environment, living in an eco-aware way can create long-term cost savings and improve overall quality of life. As more people adopt these practices, the demand for eco-friendly homes rises, influencing the market and encouraging the construction of new build homes with excellent energy efficiency ratings.
Here are some ideas to help you create an eco-efficient home:
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Energy-efficient updates
Introducing renewable energy sources is a great starting point when making updates. A gas boiler ban has been proposed by the government, so planning ahead and making changes now could be a savvy move.
Solar panels, for instance, convert sunlight into electricity, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering energy bills. With advancements in solar technology and various government incentives, solar panels are becoming an increasingly viable option for homeowners.
Energy-efficient windows and doors are another upgrade. These installations prevent heat loss during winter and keep your home cool during summer, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling. Look for double or triple-glazed windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings to maximise energy savings.
For a simple switch, LED lighting is a simple yet effective way to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. LEDs consume up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last significantly longer.
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Sustainable materials
When renovating or designing an eco-friendly home, choosing sustainable materials is an important step. Reclaimed wood is an excellent option for flooring, furniture, and architectural details. It gives new life to old materials, reduces waste, and adds character to your home.
Recycled metal can be used in home construction and design, from structural components to decorative elements. Using recycled materials helps reduce the demand for new resources and lowers the environmental impact associated with mining and manufacturing.
Look at incorporating eco-friendly insulation, such as cellulose or sheep’s wool, too. This provides excellent thermal performance while being non-toxic and biodegradable.
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Green landscaping
Eco-friendly landscaping goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about creating a sustainable outdoor environment that supports local ecosystems. One effective strategy is using native plants, which are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. These need less water and maintenance compared to non-native species, making them a practical and sustainable choice.
Compost systems are another eco-friendly addition. Composting organic waste such as kitchen scraps reduces landfill use and produces nutrient-rich soil for your garden. This improves soil health and also reduces the need for chemical fertilisers.
Sustainable landscaping practices can also be beneficial. Rainwater harvesting, for example, can significantly reduce water usage. This setup collects and store rainwater for irrigation.
What sustainable practices will you introduce in your home?
